South Yorks: Drink drive numbers down over Christmas

South Yorkshire Police say a lower percentage of people were caught drink-driving over Christmas

Police in South Yorkshire breathalysed more than 3,000 motorists during the force’s annual Christmas drink and drug drive campaign.

During December, a total of 3,054 tests were carried out with 2,505 of them being done during routine stops and a further 549 drivers being tested after a collision.

But during the crack-down only 154 motorists tested positive, refused or failed to give a breath test, while only three people were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drink or drugs.

This compares to 2,908 motorists being breathalysed during the same period in 2012 when 151 people also provided a positive breath test.

Chief Inspector Stuart Walne, said: “The statistics show that the vast majority of motorists in South Yorkshire think about the safety of others and don’t get behind the wheel when they are over the limit.

“However, the fact that some people continue to flout the law and get behind the wheel after one too many continues to be a great concern.

“Even though the festive period is over, South Yorkshire police will continue to take robust action against anyone caught driving while under the influence.”